Hong Kong experienced a robust influx of visitors on the opening day of China’s nine-day Spring Festival holiday, with more than 377,000 people entering the city by 9 p.m. on Sunday, official figures showed.

The surge, led by travellers from mainland China, filled the city’s shopping districts, cultural sites and tourist attractions, setting a lively tone for the Golden Week period.

Retailers reported strong demand for festive goods, jewellery and luxury items, particularly traditional pure gold accessories and ornaments featuring horse motifs in celebration of the Year of the Horse.

Malls and sightseeing locations across the territory saw heavy footfall throughout the day, with visitors adding vibrancy to key commercial hubs.

Hong Kong’s Financial Secretary, Paul Chan, noted on social media that arrivals from the mainland could reach an estimated 1.43 million over the course of the holiday, representing a year-on-year increase in average daily visitor numbers.

A packed calendar of Lunar New Year events — including parade floats, fireworks, horse racing and football matches — is expected to draw additional global visitors and further support the city’s economic rebound.

Government data released ahead of the holiday showed that overall visitor numbers from January 1 to February 13 had already risen by nearly ten percent compared with the same period last year.

Arrivals from overseas markets climbed even more sharply, signaling renewed international interest in Hong Kong as a premier travel destination.

The strong turnout underscores Hong Kong’s central role as a vibrant tourism and retail hub in the region, particularly during major holiday seasons when travel demand traditionally peaks.

Industry observers say the influx is poised to benefit local businesses and hospitality sectors throughout the Golden Week holiday.